What would you rather drive: a Porsche or a school bus? For river runners choosing between a kayak and a raft, the choice is that simple. Kayaking whitewater is the ultimate river experience—playful, nimble and dynamic—it’s like a dance with the river. Rafting, on the other hand, is a lot like work. A raft is …
When you fall off of a wave or miss a move through a rapid the frequent culprit is an inadvertent, barely perceptible wobble. If this wobble is enough to force you to brace rather than paddle proactively, that alone can cost the move. But even smaller wobbles can cost a move. Here’s the deal: the …
As opposed to “roughing it,” I’d much rather “smooth” it on my kayaking trips. You know, take it easy, relax and enjoy the simple things in life on those trips in a big boat, on easy water, and without portages or time constraints. Sure, it may be the difference between kayak camping and tripping, but …
The idea of practicing specific paddling skills may not seem exciting. But drilling essential techniques can lead to moving your kayak with precision, confidence and control. An important element in many instructional programs is the use of buoys, ropes, hula-hoops or other practice devices to help sharpen skills. Buoy work is a staple of precise …
At a loss of where to kayak in the Sunshine State? Look no farther than the following map and listing, which highlight the best places in Florida to float your kayak. In 1979, the Florida Recreation Act established a network of recreational trails across the Sunshine State as a way for people to explore Florida. …
In many parts of North America moving water is the norm. Whitewater and tranquil ponds may be hours away, but gently moving current is often right at paddlers’ fingertips. Coastal areas like the Southeast have waterways that remain motionless until a big rain; as rainwater drains, however, their once docile waters become alive with flow. …
Kayaking through surf can be the easiest or hardest thing you ever do in a kayak. Here’s how to maneuver more efficiently through the waves Launching Face the ocean with your bow pointed directly at the water. If you wish to make it to the other side of an approaching wave you must maintain a …
Rapids and Paddles don’t always mix. A case in point is one rapid where, after a tremendous thrashing, a certain rafter lost three Paddles. It was a previously unnamed rapid, but a logical name came to mind: The Three Paddle-Deal. Then there are those rapids where Paddles flow with water as though the two were …
S-turns link the three river maneuvers that are the foundation of whitewater kayaking – ferries, peel outs, and eddy turns. They are used to transition from a carving turn in one direction to a carving turn in another and help you take advantage of available features, nature’s slalom course without the gates. Harnessing river currents …